Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The reply of Earl Russell to the French note which is published in all the morning papers is sent herewith. It is sufficiently decisive to answer all present purposes. I have just returned from my conference with his lordship on the subject of the convention. The conversation which ensued was too long to be reported to day. I can only say that it was friendly and satisfactory. I inquired if he had any information of the answer of the Russian court. He said that he had received only an abstract of it by the telegraph. I understood him that, in substance, it contained an expression of great interest in the communication, a desire not to stand in the way of any joint action that might be determined on by the two powers, and a profession of a wish to help on any measures to restore peace in America that might be likely to prove acceptable to the United States. * * * * * * *
It is a little remarkable that, both in England and France, the tendency of public opinion is gradually to fall into the old channel of party divisions. The advocates of strong power side with the rebels, whilst the more I beral and popular party befriend the cause of the government. This is becoming more and more visible as the struggle goes on. Efforts are now making here, with a good prospect of success, for a more effective organization of the anti-slavery sentiment in our behalf.
Since writing the above I have received the following telegram, purporting to give the substance of the Russian answer :
“St. Petersburgh, November 15.
“The ‘Journal de St. Petersburgh’ of to-day contains the reply of Prince Gortschak off to the note of M. Drouyn de l’Huys.
“The Prince, after recalling the constant efforts of Russia in favor of conciliation in America, says: ‘It is requisite, above all, to avoid the appearance of any pressure whatever capable of chilling public opinion in America, or of exciting the susceptibility of the nation. We believe that a combined measure of the powers, however conciliatory, if presented in an official or officious (officieux) character, would risk arriving at a result opposed to pacification. If, however, France should persist in her intention, and England should acquiesce, instructions [Page 6] shall be despatched to Baron Stoeckl at Washington to lend to both his colleagues, if not official aid, at least moral support.’”
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.